Abstract
ABSTRACT Aeration in hydroturbine plays a pivotal role in its optimal operation, serving a range of vital functions that enhance their efficiency, longevity, and environmental impact. A review on the application and the dynamics of air injection will pave a way to explore its applicability to solve problems in hydroturbines, one of such issues which need at most importance is silt erosion. The current review focuses on methods employed to improve dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in the downstream of the reservoir and its effects on hydrotubine operations. Typically, the DO level improvement up to 6 mg/l has served as a benchmark for the scientific community since the mid-twentieth century, resulting in many US patents for Francis turbine blade designs with air injection ports. These novel patent designs affect aeration through the central hub, runner cone, or the perimeter of the turbine to improve the turbine efficiency and oxygen dissolution levels in the water. The auto-venting turbine technology has achieved DO level of 5.5 mg/l, increasing the total efficiency and capacity by 3.5% and 10%, respectively. Effective aeration in hydroturbines also depends on factors such as air bubble size and dispersion in water. Studying bubble distribution shows how larger bubbles and blade angles impact the void fraction, enhancing air transfer to water at variable flow rates. Further studies on aeration technique can be focused on evaluating the extent of silt erosion mitigation in hydroturbines.
Published Version
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